The rates of melanoma are rising faster than any of the seven most common cancers, and is the most common form of skin cancer for young adults ages 25 to 29, says the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention.

At 11 a.m. Sept. 5, the Wayne State University Physician Group Dermatology Services will visit the Detroit Zoo, located at 8450 W. Ten Mile Road, Royal Oak, in conjunction with the Zoo’s Tri-County Senior Day. The visit serves as a reminder to residents of all ages that sun damage happens all year, not just in the summer.

Sunscreen and informative skin care brochures will be distributed outside the zoo gates and within a senior resource area inside the zoo.

The Wayne State University Physician Group Dermatology Services offers a range of treatments for patients with dermatological problems, including specialty dermatology, cosmetic and pediatric concerns, with locations in Dearborn, Monroe and Sterling Heights. For more information or to find a University Physician Group dermatologist, call 313-240-4900 or visit www.upgdocs.com.

Admission, parking and Tauber Family Railroad rides are free from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to seniors 62 and older residing in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties.

The visit is co-sponsored by the Women’s Dermatological Society, a national association of dermatologists.

To promote skin care throughout the year, the Wayne State University Physician Group offers these skin cancer prevention tips, courtesy of the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention:

• Use extra caution near water, snow and sand, as these surfaces reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.
• Avoid intentional tanning and tanning beds all year.
• If you’re outdoors, seek shade whenever possible between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are the strongest.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when comfortable, and always wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Use a broad spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 30 or higher. Apply 15 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours.
• Don’t rely on the sun for Vitamin D. Instead, take vitamin supplements and eat a healthy diet of Vitamin D-rich foods such as wild caught salmon, light tuna packed in oil, milk, mushrooms, eggs and ricotta cheese.
• Early detection of melanoma can save your life. Carefully examine all of your skin once a month. A new or changing spot should be evaluated.

Source: Wayne State University